# General Questions **URL:** https://prepomax.discourse.group/c/general-questions/6.md?page=2 [Latest](https://prepomax.discourse.group/latest.md) · [Categories](https://prepomax.discourse.group/categories.md) · [Tags](https://prepomax.discourse.group/tags.md) **Page:** 3 --- ## [Submodel and CAD model import error](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/submodel-and-cad-model-import-error/3546)
**Author:** [@MisiaKu](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/MisiaKu)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [June 25, 2026, 3:42pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/submodel-and-cad-model-import-error/3546 "2026-06-25T15:42:57Z")
Dear Sir or Madam, I created a model to test the SUBMODEL option. The deformation of the detail doesn’t match the deformation direction of the global model. Is this a mesh problem? What did I do wrong? Why is the… --- ## [Problem with welding joints](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/problem-with-welding-joints/3543)
**Author:** [@Filippo](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/Filippo)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [June 25, 2026, 10:28am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/problem-with-welding-joints/3543 "2026-06-25T10:28:32Z")
Hi everyone, i am running a simulation of a structural lifting joint. The assembly is composed of three main parts welded together using either continuous or intermittent welds. I modeled all the parts, including the … --- ## [Best way to model a screw to tapped hole connection](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/best-way-to-model-a-screw-to-tapped-hole-connection/3545)
**Author:** [@Fran](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/Fran)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [June 25, 2026, 10:14am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/best-way-to-model-a-screw-to-tapped-hole-connection/3545 "2026-06-25T10:14:24Z")
Hello I’ve been wondering about the best way to model the connection between a screw and a tapped hole. I’ve seen many things and topics about bolted connections (B below), but couldn’t find much about tapped connection… --- ## [ODB to FRD Conversion Changes Stress Values](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/odb-to-frd-conversion-changes-stress-values/3536)
**Author:** [@BaZai5793](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/BaZai5793)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [June 22, 2026, 3:47pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/odb-to-frd-conversion-changes-stress-values/3536 "2026-06-22T15:47:38Z")
Hi everyone, I converted an Abaqus .odb file to .frd and noticed that some stress values changed slightly after conversion. For example, at the same location: Abaqus ODB node 1021003: 207.76 MPa Converted FRD node 10… --- ## [Upcoming version](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/upcoming-version/3542)
**Author:** [@TKemeny86](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/TKemeny86)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [June 22, 2026, 6:03am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/upcoming-version/3542 "2026-06-22T06:03:37Z")
Hi there, Can I be the noosy person and asking about the planed new features in the upcoming version? Thank you again for this amazing tool --- ## [Compound of face/surface issue](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/compound-of-face-surface-issue/3541)
**Author:** [@Crysthius](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/Crysthius)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [June 21, 2026, 5:29pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/compound-of-face-surface-issue/3541 "2026-06-21T17:29:05Z")
Hi Team, I would like to find out if I am making an mistake or if it is just not possible what I am trying to do: I created a step file suing FreeCAD v1.1.1. The components were created using the Part workbench “Face … --- ## [Large model: Anyone able to mesh this?](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/large-model-anyone-able-to-mesh-this/3491)
**Author:** [@CosmoKramer](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/CosmoKramer)\ **Replies:** 74\ **Last updated:** [June 21, 2026, 1:58pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/large-model-anyone-able-to-mesh-this/3491 "2026-06-21T13:58:07Z")
I’m trying to mesh this wall assembly (attached) but it freezes when I try select the parts to apply the meshing settings to. I’ve tried cloud HPC (224 vCPUs, AMD EPYC 7B13) but it still freezes. I prefer not to ‘simpli… --- ## [Geometry Being Altered After Meshing](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/geometry-being-altered-after-meshing/3531)
**Author:** [@tuunch](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/tuunch)\ **Replies:** 18\ **Last updated:** [June 17, 2026, 9:36am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/geometry-being-altered-after-meshing/3531 "2026-06-17T09:36:20Z")
Hello, I’m new to PrePoMax and I’m trying to create a strength analysis on this structure. Supporting structures and the cylinder is shell while the surface beneath the cylinder (deck) is a solid with 16mm of thickness. … --- ## [Nonpositive Jacobian Error in Mixed Shell-Solid Model Imported via Gmsh](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/nonpositive-jacobian-error-in-mixed-shell-solid-model-imported-via-gmsh/3537)
**Author:** [@Zenggkk](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/Zenggkk)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [June 17, 2026, 7:22am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/nonpositive-jacobian-error-in-mixed-shell-solid-model-imported-via-gmsh/3537 "2026-06-17T07:22:45Z")
Hello everyone, I have been working on an analysis that I originally ran in ANSYS. I exported the mesh to Gmsh in BDF format and then imported it into PrePoMax using the INP format. I set up all the connections similarl… --- ## [Question regarding geometric parameterization / re-running simulations with existing boundary conditions](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/question-regarding-geometric-parameterization-re-running-simulations-with-existing-boundary-conditions/3533)
**Author:** [@gjv](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/gjv)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [June 17, 2026, 6:56am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/question-regarding-geometric-parameterization-re-running-simulations-with-existing-boundary-conditions/3533 "2026-06-17T06:56:21Z")
Hi everyone, I’m posting to the forum for the first time. I’ve been using the software recently and have been thoroughly impressed with its capabilities. I am currently working on an optimization problem where I need t… --- ## [Help with a bolted connection (pretensioned bolts, half symmetry and under thension](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/help-with-a-bolted-connection-pretensioned-bolts-half-symmetry-and-under-thension/2787)
**Author:** [@MaraJaatinen](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/MaraJaatinen)\ **Replies:** 22\ **Last updated:** [June 14, 2026, 5:01pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/help-with-a-bolted-connection-pretensioned-bolts-half-symmetry-and-under-thension/2787 "2026-06-14T17:01:48Z")
Hi all. I’m getting fairly desperate here. I’ve got about 60 hours spent working on a few different kinds of bolted connections and I can’t seem to get the analysis to solve. I’ve tried to simplify it to the connection s… --- ## [Sealing lip deformation / assembly](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/sealing-lip-deformation-assembly/3518)
**Author:** [@rubber25](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/rubber25)\ **Replies:** 25\ **Last updated:** [June 12, 2026, 6:55am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/sealing-lip-deformation-assembly/3518 "2026-06-12T06:55:00Z")
Hello everyone, I started to do my first steps with PrePoMax and it’s fascinating to see all the things you can do with it. :slight\_smile: I want to do a 2D calculation of an sealing assembly process to see the deforma… --- ## [2D Axial symmetry](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/2d-axial-symmetry/3520)
**Author:** [@DNatali](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/DNatali)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [June 11, 2026, 9:12am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/2d-axial-symmetry/3520 "2026-06-11T09:12:35Z")
Hello! I’m currently working on a 2D section of a pneumatic cylinder, trying to study its response due impact. I started with a simply static step to figure out the most stressed part in the model but the analysis is… --- ## [Rotary Shaft Lip Seals tutorial](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/rotary-shaft-lip-seals-tutorial/3513)
**Author:** [@yapps](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/yapps)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [June 8, 2026, 4:34pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/rotary-shaft-lip-seals-tutorial/3513 "2026-06-08T16:34:26Z")
New on PrePoMax, it looks fantastic! I appreciate the great tutorials from @FEAnalyst on YouTube. Does anyone know how to get in touch with team @FEAnalyst to suggest a new tutorial on Rotary Shaft Lip Seals? To me it… --- ## [Error occurs during mesh](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/error-occurs-during-mesh/3510)
**Author:** [@mehmet1](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/mehmet1)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [June 7, 2026, 4:42pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/error-occurs-during-mesh/3510 "2026-06-07T16:42:34Z")
hi ı try to mesh but ı got errors 06/07/26 15:15:10 El: 402 faces: 30 vol = 0.327701 06/07/26 15:15:10 El: 403 faces: 28 vol = 0.207913 06/07/26 15:15:10 El: 404 faces: 26 vol = 0.136537 06/07/26 15:15:10 … --- ## [Simulation of Planar Magnetic membranes; tweeter and midrange](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/simulation-of-planar-magnetic-membranes-tweeter-and-midrange/3475)
**Author:** [@solhaga](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/solhaga)\ **Replies:** 88\ **Last updated:** [June 5, 2026, 9:21am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/simulation-of-planar-magnetic-membranes-tweeter-and-midrange/3475 "2026-06-05T09:21:48Z")
For the full context, please look in this thread at diyaudio.com. I’m new to PrePoMax, so please bear with me if I’m using the wrong vocabulary or asking very simple questions. I’m not all new to FEA; I’ve been using F… --- ## [Help Troubleshooting Simple Compression Test](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/help-troubleshooting-simple-compression-test/3508)
**Author:** [@LouisLeblanc](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/LouisLeblanc)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [June 3, 2026, 7:19pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/help-troubleshooting-simple-compression-test/3508 "2026-06-03T19:19:10Z")
Hi everyone, I have a feeling I’m missing something obvious in my simulation (or in the behaviour I’m expecting to simulate). I’ve simplified the problem to the maximum so hopefully that makes it easier for someone else … --- ## [Contact doesn't open in reverse direction](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/contact-doesnt-open-in-reverse-direction/3503)
**Author:** [@Fran](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/Fran)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [June 1, 2026, 11:07am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/contact-doesnt-open-in-reverse-direction/3503 "2026-06-01T11:07:58Z")
Hello, I’m running a model of a stamping/crimping process, involving plastic deformation. Here is a sketch of the model (I can’t share the pmx): This is a 2D axissymetric model, with linear quads elements and Node-t… --- ## [Coincident merged meshes](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/coincident-merged-meshes/3502)
**Author:** [@yvan](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/yvan)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [May 31, 2026, 6:38pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/coincident-merged-meshes/3502 "2026-05-31T18:38:27Z")
Hello I have several geom faces (step import) to mesh in order to form one single part (with condensed merged nodes at interface of faces). NB: I need those distinct faces for applying specific local materials and pro… --- ## [Modeling a Cable and Pulley](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/modeling-a-cable-and-pulley/3501)
**Author:** [@ahmad7756](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/ahmad7756)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [May 29, 2026, 9:17pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/modeling-a-cable-and-pulley/3501 "2026-05-29T21:17:35Z")
Hi, Is it possible to model a cable going over a pully 90° with two forces applied to the ends. the element needs to to have tension + bending stiffness and can have frictional contact with the pully similar to Cable280… --- ## [Thermal Analysis | Simple Box | Results Not Believable | Insight?](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/thermal-analysis-simple-box-results-not-believable-insight/3488)
**Author:** [@PPM-Thermal](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/PPM-Thermal)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2026, 12:53am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/thermal-analysis-simple-box-results-not-believable-insight/3488 "2026-05-28T00:53:34Z")
My goal is to determine and/or estimate the inner air temperature of a thin-walled, six-sided, empty, aluminum box with dimensions of 12 inch x 12 inch x 18 inch (304.8 mm x 304.8 mm x 457.2 mm). The box will be situated… --- ## [Compression only contact](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/compression-only-contact/3497)
**Author:** [@DAVID-KNIGHT](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/DAVID-KNIGHT)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2026, 6:51pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/compression-only-contact/3497 "2026-05-26T18:51:05Z")
i’m having some issues setting up a compression only contact. I have a steel outer sheath (Blue), surrounding a steel pile (Green), there is an 80mm gap between them that is filled with concrete (red). This will then b… --- ## [Differences in results between solid mesh and surface mesh](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/differences-in-results-between-solid-mesh-and-surface-mesh/3496)
**Author:** [@denizckr61](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/denizckr61)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [May 25, 2026, 4:01pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/differences-in-results-between-solid-mesh-and-surface-mesh/3496 "2026-05-25T16:01:59Z")
Hi to All. I wanted to simulate 3 forces on reference points using Distributing Coupling on solid elements and rigid body links with surface elements. I applied distributing coupling to surface element on solid and rigid… --- ## [How can I obtain a free body diagram?](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/how-can-i-obtain-a-free-body-diagram/3477)
**Author:** [@ing515](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/ing515)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [May 25, 2026, 6:21am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/how-can-i-obtain-a-free-body-diagram/3477 "2026-05-25T06:21:11Z")
I wanted to check if PrePoMax now has the ability to plot free body forces/diagrams. I haven’t found anything on the topic, apart from some old forum threads where users were asking for it as a future feature. I’m just… --- ## [Convergence issue with nlgeom](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/convergence-issue-with-nlgeom/3472)
**Author:** [@yvan](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/yvan)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [May 20, 2026, 10:34am UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/convergence-issue-with-nlgeom/3472 "2026-05-20T10:34:40Z")
Hello I face convergence issues with Calculix (Paradiso) solver, with model create with PrePoMax. I have a static step with centrifugal load, and I am using NLGEOM option. \*Step, Nlgeom, Inc=200 \*Static, Solver=Pardi… --- ## [Symmetry & MPC's](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/symmetry-mpcs/3483)
**Author:** [@alpha-beta](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/alpha-beta)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [May 19, 2026, 11:22pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/symmetry-mpcs/3483 "2026-05-19T23:22:29Z")
Hi all, Pretty basic question, I’ve been using abaqus & hypermesh/optistruct for about 6 years but am looking into prepomax and I’m having some trouble with setting up a model for axisymmetry and using MPC’s. It seems … --- ## [Validation against ISO 10211-2017](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/validation-against-iso-10211-2017/3467)
**Author:** [@CosmoKramer](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/CosmoKramer)\ **Replies:** 65\ **Last updated:** [May 18, 2026, 3:13pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/validation-against-iso-10211-2017/3467 "2026-05-18T15:13:41Z")
I’m trying to validate PrePoMax v2.5.0 against ISO 10211-2017. The standard consists of 4 test cases (1-4) and to be classified as a three-dimensional steady-state high precision method, the software has to pass all 4. I… --- ## [How to manage mesh layer in solid object?](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/how-to-manage-mesh-layer-in-solid-object/3478)
**Author:** [@denizckr61](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/denizckr61)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [May 18, 2026, 1:25pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/how-to-manage-mesh-layer-in-solid-object/3478 "2026-05-18T13:25:51Z")
Hello to All! I am using solid elements to represent my structure. Due to its complexity I made a compound element before in Rhino(CAD) to import peromax. Information about this structures are basically flat plates we… --- ## [Difference in displacement between rigid body connection and distributed coupling](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/difference-in-displacement-between-rigid-body-connection-and-distributed-coupling/3474)
**Author:** [@denizckr61](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/denizckr61)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [May 15, 2026, 3:31pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/difference-in-displacement-between-rigid-body-connection-and-distributed-coupling/3474 "2026-05-15T15:31:26Z")
Hi, I am trying to simulate the concentrated force acting on a reference point to create moment on the specific part of the body. I am a begginer. I am trying to search in forums to learn more about the topics. I di… --- ## [Interference Fit of a Ring on a Spoked Wheel](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/interference-fit-of-a-ring-on-a-spoked-wheel/3471)
**Author:** [@AndKeyEng](https://prepomax.discourse.group/u/AndKeyEng)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [May 14, 2026, 12:23pm UTC](https://prepomax.discourse.group/t/interference-fit-of-a-ring-on-a-spoked-wheel/3471 "2026-05-14T12:23:42Z")
Hi PPM Forum, I’m having trouble to get reliable results for an interference fit of a Ring on a Spoked Wheel. I started my FEA in 2D with a solid wheel and progressed to build 3D models with increased detail including … [Previous page](https://prepomax.discourse.group/c/general-questions/6.md?page=1) [Next page](https://prepomax.discourse.group/c/general-questions/6.md?page=3)